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If I use a eGPU, will it increase the number of external monitor supported by my MacBook pro?

I have a 2017 TouchbBar 13" MacBook with 4 TB3 ports. By itself it only supports up to two external monitors plus the built-in display. If I attach an eGPU, will I be able to use more than two external monitors?

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.14

Posted on Sep 4, 2020 10:56 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 4, 2020 11:01 AM

Hi,


In theory, yes. But make sure you check the specifications for the eGPU and what will the card support.


Have a look at this link from Apple.


An eGPU lets you do all this on your Mac:

  • Accelerate apps that use Metal, OpenGL, and OpenCL
  • ✅Connect additional external monitors and displays
  • Use virtual reality headsets plugged into the eGPU
  • Charge your MacBook Pro while using the eGPU
  • Use an eGPU with your MacBook Pro while its built-in display is closed 
  • Connect an eGPU while a user is logged in
  • Connect more than one eGPU using the multiple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports on your Mac2
  • Use the menu bar item  to safely disconnect the eGPU
  • View the activity levels of built-in and external GPUs (Open Activity Monitor, then choose Window > GPU History.)


Hope this helps.

Vicko




3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 4, 2020 11:01 AM in response to ricardopv

Hi,


In theory, yes. But make sure you check the specifications for the eGPU and what will the card support.


Have a look at this link from Apple.


An eGPU lets you do all this on your Mac:

  • Accelerate apps that use Metal, OpenGL, and OpenCL
  • ✅Connect additional external monitors and displays
  • Use virtual reality headsets plugged into the eGPU
  • Charge your MacBook Pro while using the eGPU
  • Use an eGPU with your MacBook Pro while its built-in display is closed 
  • Connect an eGPU while a user is logged in
  • Connect more than one eGPU using the multiple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports on your Mac2
  • Use the menu bar item  to safely disconnect the eGPU
  • View the activity levels of built-in and external GPUs (Open Activity Monitor, then choose Window > GPU History.)


Hope this helps.

Vicko




Sep 4, 2020 11:01 AM in response to ricardopv

Yes, it will, but it costs on the order of US$1000. and provides full accelerated display capability.


If you only need a fairly slow display for pedestrian images like stock quotes or software listings, and do not need fine mouse-tracking on that display, there is a "simulated display" solution for US$50. It uses DiaplayLink technology and a DisplayLink chip in an external box.


https://eshop.macsales.com/item/NewerTech/VIDU3DVIA/


.

If I use a eGPU, will it increase the number of external monitor supported by my MacBook pro?

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